“Mr McCully said he had received no information about the Malaysian diplomat leaving New Zealand under diplomatic immunity after being charged for assault with intent to rape and burglary.

“Although the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade sent an email on the 22nd of May about the diplomat’s departure to McCully’s office, the Minister said he was travelling at the time and there was ‘no communication capability’.

“But according to the Visa card charged to his office, when the email was sent he was in New York, a city that has excellent internet access.

“More significantly, the Visa bill also shows a $14.95 charge for internet access to the hotel room.

“His excuses for being completely unaware and showing any interest in an alleged serious crime can no longer be taken seriously,” said David Shearer.

“He has blamed MFAT officials and no internet connection for not knowing about a significant development in this case.

“It is a sad indictment that Minister McCully refuses to take any responsibility for the affair.

“What’s worse is that the terms of reference for the investigation that he established into the bungling only looks at MFAT operations and excludes the actions of him and his office.”